COMMISSIONED - GO TELL SOMEBODY (*NEW-CD, 2009, Retroactive) Black Gospel

COMMISSIONED - GO TELL SOMEBODY (*NEW-CD, 2009, Retroactive) Black Gospel

Release Date: November 10, 2009
Catalog Number: RAR7885
UPC: 845121012293
Style: Black Gospel/Pop
Tracks: 8
Time: 37:47
Lyrics: No
Packaging: 4 panel digipak


ABOUT THE ALBUM
Go Tell Somebody was Commissioned’s sophomore release from 1986, a set packed with fervent, soulful deliveries in an irresistible musical package. Never ones to shy from the gospel message, these six Detroit-based brothers in Christ pulled from influences as diverse as R&B, traditional gospel and 80’s pop to capture the attention of youth across racial and denominational lines, serving notice that they were here to stay. With massive hits that included "Running Back To You" and "Victory", Commissioned set the standard, influencing both the mainstream and gospel music community for years to come. Relive it again with this re-issue and Go Tell Somebody!

This Limited Edition reissue comes packaged in a full color digipak with enhanced original artwork and is properly remastered for a high quality audio experience! Stan North, Managing Editor of GOSPELflava . com contributes liner notes exclusive to this release.


KEY SELLING POINTS
**Full promotional/magazine campaign
**Limited
**Classic album reissued in full color digipak
**Classic out-of-print and in-demand album now an affordable, high quality reissue
**Exclusive linter notes by Stan North, Managing Editor of GOSPELflava . com
**Band toured internationally for a decade

TRACKS
01. Victory
02. Love Isn't Love
03. Go Tell Somebody
04. Cry On
05. Who Do Men Say I Am?
06. Hide The Word
07. Learn To Pray
08. Running Back To You

PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH REVIEW
Go Tell Somebody (Limited Edition – Remastered)
Artist: Commissioned
Label: Retroactive Records
Length: 8 tracks/37:47 minutes
Listening to Go Tell Somebody by Commissioned helps to rectify a deficiency in my knowledge of Christian music. Having been raised on pop and rock, my early exposure to gospel music did not go much beyond hearing Andre Crouch & the Disciples. That was in the late 1970’s.

In 1982, six guys from Detroit, including gospel luminary Fred Hammond, formed Commissioned. The group recorded 11 albums between 1984 and 2002. Among the lineup changes along the way was the addition of another widely-recognized gospel artist, Marvin Sapp, in 1991.

Go Tell Somebody (1986) was the group’s second release on Light Records, which reached number two on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums list. It fuses R&B, traditional gospel, 80’s pop, and a little funk and inspirational, with passionate vocals and smooth harmonizing.

The stated purpose of the recording is to uplift listeners and let them know that no weapon formed against them will prosper. The group succeeds admirably with lyrics that reflect a mature Christian perspective that is uncommonly bold and informed by Scripture. “Who Do Men Say I Am” has a grand, epic vibe ending with references from Isaiah 53. “Go Tell Somebody” encourages continually thinking about the lost. “Love Isn’t Love” features smooth as silk vocals reminding us that we have not loved until we have helped someone else.

The solid, spiritual truths surpass much of what you hear today. This will especially appeal to those who like music with substance.

Even with the remastering, the music sounds a little dated, which is to be expected on a recording more than 20 years old. Overall, it holds up well in part because the R&B/gospel style may be more timeless than pop and rock. The arrangements and production are also excellent.

The catchy music and the timeless truths make this still relevant today.

Michael Dalton

February 12, 2010